In recent years, many great players have left a significant legacy in the NBA. To name a few, perhaps the most prominent due to their level of play and number of titles won are LeBron James and Stephen Curry. However, Kevin Durant‘s name could also be among the best of recent times. It was James who recently sent a clear message regarding the Phoenix Suns’ star.
Their rivalry in recent times has delivered countless high-caliber matchups. James, with the Lakers, Miami, or Cleveland, and Durant, representing the Thunder, Warriors, Nets, or now the Suns, have faced off multiple times, always giving their all on the court.
For the delight of basketball fans, these two tremendous players had the chance to play together on the same team (with Stephen Curry also joining them) during the recent Paris 2024 Olympics, where they secured the gold medal.
Despite being in the final stages of their careers, both LeBron and KD have managed to showcase an elite level of play throughout the tournament, often joined by the usual efficiency we’ve come to expect from Steph Curry.
Lebron James #6 and Kevin Durant #7 of Team United States celebrate after a basket during a Men’s basketball semifinals match between Team United States and Team Serbia on day thirteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 08, 2024 in Paris, France.
Indeed, King LeBron showered Kevin Durant with praise following his performance in the Olympics, leading the Lakers star to develop an immense respect for KD.
see also
LeBron James delivers a powerful reflection on being named MVP of the Paris 2024 Olympics
LeBron and his message about Kevin Durant
Following the gold medal victory in Paris, where Team USA clinched the top spot for the fifth consecutive time, LeBron James made a powerful statement about sharing the roster with Kevin Durant.
In an interview with Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Los Angeles Lakers star stated: “KD?” James said in response. “KD’s one of the all-time greats. It’s not even a question. I mean, you just look at his silhouette, look at his skill. He’s one of the best basketball players we’ve ever seen play the game of basketball.”
Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers hug after the Lakers defeated the Suns, 100-95, at Crypto.com Arena on October 26, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Durant scored a game high 39 points.
LeBron James’ and Team USA’s future
As many of the players who conquered the gold medal in Paris 2024 are approaching to final stage of their careers, many teammates such as Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards of Joel Embiid can continue the legacy.
That’s why LeBron James hopes that this 2024 run can ‘inspire people,’ given the aging stars that were featured on this roster.
